Florida
Kayaking North Florida’s Sacred Springs & Rivers
Program No. 23541RJ
Kayak along North Florida’s artesian springs and rivers, learning about sustainability, conservation and ecology from the locals who advocate to protect the crystal-clear waters.
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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
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Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Jan 19 - Jan 24, 2025
Starting at
1,799Feb 9 - Feb 14, 2025
Starting at
1,799Feb 16 - Feb 21, 2025
Starting at
1,799Feb 23 - Feb 28, 2025
Starting at
1,799Mar 2 - Mar 7, 2025
Starting at
1,799DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Jan 19 - Jan 24, 2025
Starting at
2,179Feb 9 - Feb 14, 2025
Starting at
2,179Feb 16 - Feb 21, 2025
Starting at
2,179Feb 23 - Feb 28, 2025
Starting at
2,179Mar 2 - Mar 7, 2025
Starting at
2,179Mar 9 - Mar 14, 2025
Starting at
2,179Mar 16 - Mar 21, 2025
Starting at
2,179Oct 19 - Oct 24, 2025
Starting at
2,179Nov 9 - Nov 14, 2025
Starting at
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
6 days
5 nights
12 meals
5B 3L 4D
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Intro to North Florida
Gainesville, Florida
2
Florida Springs Institute, Paddle Down Ichetucknee River
Gainesville, Florida
3
Kayak Santa Fe River, Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park
Gainesville, Florida
4
Paynes Prairie, Hike La Chua Trail, Observation Tower
Gainesville, Florida
5
Kayaking at Silver Springs State Park
Gainesville, Florida
6
Wrap-up Presentation, Program Concludes
Gainesville, Florida
At a Glance
The artesian springs of North Florida flow together to create a unique ecosystem and habitat for local wildlife — and their gentle, aqua-blue waters provide the perfect classroom for learning about this ecosystem and habitat by kayak! Find out about the threats that these springs (and the Floridian Aquifer that feeds them) face from human activity and how local activists like the Florida Springs Institute advocate to ensure clean water. As you paddle along the sparkling springs from Ichnetucknee to Ginnie Springs, learn about these environmental issues from local experts who are at the forefront of local conservation efforts.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Kayaking for several hours each day.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Stroll through Sweetwater Wetlands Park, one of Florida’s best birding sites, and find out about Alachua County’s citizen-driven initiative to create clean water.
- Take part in classroom lectures on topics from sustainability to ecology and cultural history of the area.
- Enjoy kayaking with Gainesville native Lars Andersen, whose 20 years of knowledge and expertise are unmatched.
General Notes
Select dates are designated for small groups and are limited to 24 participants or less. Almost all rooms have one queen bed. A low single supplement is available.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Anne Casella
Anne Casella is a retired faculty from the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department at the University of Florida. She is an avid gardener and bird watcher and serves on the Conservation Committee of the Alachua Audubon Society. She is also a program reviewer and site visitor for the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. Whenever she is able, she travels widely to seek out new birds.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Anne Casella
View biography
Anne Casella is a retired faculty from the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department at the University of Florida. She is an avid gardener and bird watcher and serves on the Conservation Committee of the Alachua Audubon Society. She is also a program reviewer and site visitor for the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. Whenever she is able, she travels widely to seek out new birds.
Lars Andersen
View biography
Lars Anderson is a history and wildlife author with more than 35 years of experience exploring Florida’s wildest places. He has published works about North Florida and Georgia including his most recent project: “The Paddlers Guide to the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail,” published by the Suwannee River Water Management District. Lars’s knowledge and understanding of the area’s cultural and natural history helps make each Road Scholar program a meaningful and educational exploration of the “real” Florida.
Robert Knight
View biography
Dr. Robert Knight is the founder and director of the Howard T. Odum Florida Springs Institute, a nonprofit program dedicated to supporting science and education for restoration and wise management of Florida’s artesian springs. Dr. Knight is an environmental scientist with more than 40 years of professional experience, including detailed ecological studies at more than 20 large springs. He is former adjunct professor at the University of Florida Dept. of Environmental Engineering and Sciences where he taught graduate level classes on Florida’s springs and wetlands.
Suggested Reading List
(4 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Kayaking North Florida’s Sacred Springs & Rivers
Program Number: 23541
Gainesville (Images of America: Florida)
Gainesville, Florida, has grown from a small agricultural community in the north-central part of the state to a thriving city. Many people have had a hand in Gainesville’s evolution. After befriending the Timucuan Indians, who had originally inhabited the region, the Spanish began recruiting other settlers to move to the area. Despite those valued contributions, however, the people who brought the railroad to Gainesville deserve the most credit for giving the town its start. Soon after tracks were laid through the city, small businesses sprouted and opportunities for new industries arose. The city’s population expanded along with its economic growth, and more people began to witness the unique potential of Gainesville. In 1905, the city became home to the University of Florida, and a rich educational heritage began. The university brought great attention to the town and subsequently made Gainesville one of the most important cities in the state and one of the most prominent educational epicenters in the South.
Cross Creek Cookery
First published in 1942, Cross Creek Cookery was compiled by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings at the request of readers who wanted to recreate the luscious meals described in Cross Creek -- her famous memoir of life in a Florida hamlet.
Lovers of old-fashioned, down-home cooking will treasure the recipes for Grits, Hush-Puppies, Florida Fried Fish, Orange Fluff, and Utterly Deadly Southern Pecan Pie. For more adventuresome palates, there are such unusual dishes as Minorcan Gopher Stew, Coot Surprise, Alligator-Tail Steak, Mayhaw Jelly, and Chef Huston's Cream of Peanut Soup.
Spiced with delightful anecdotes and lore, Cross Creek Cookery guides the reader through the rich culinary heritage of the deep tidal South with a loving regard for the rituals of cooking and eating. Anyone who longs for food -- and writing -- that warms the heart will find ample portions of both in this classic cookbook.
The Yearling
Young Jody adopts an orphaned fawn he calls Flag and makes it a part of his family and his best friend. But life in the Florida backwoods is harsh, and so, as his family fights off wolves, bears, and even alligators, and faces failure in their tenuous subsistence farming, Jody must finally part with his dear animal friend. There has been a film and even a musical based on this story.
Paynes Prairie: The Great Savanna: A History and Guide
This new paperback edition of Paynes Prairie still offers the sweeping history of the shallow-bowl basin in the middle of Florida, just south of Gainesville, but now adds a guide to outdoor activities that can be enjoyed in the state preserve there today, along with maps of trails for biking, hiking, and canoeing.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Gainesville, Florida
Program Concludes
Gainesville, Florida
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
12
| 5B |
3L |
4D |
Activity Level
The artesian springs of North Florida flow together to create a unique ecosystem and habitat for local wildlife — and their gentle, aqua-blue waters provide the perfect classroom for learning about this ecosystem and habitat by kayak! Find out about the threats that these springs (and the Floridian Aquifer that feeds them) face from human activity and how local activists like the Florida Springs Institute advocate to ensure clean water. As you paddle along the sparkling springs from Ichnetucknee to Ginnie Springs, learn about these environmental issues from local experts who are at the forefront of local conservation efforts.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Stroll through Sweetwater Wetlands Park, one of Florida’s best birding sites, and find out about Alachua County’s citizen-driven initiative to create clean water.
- Take part in classroom lectures on topics from sustainability to ecology and cultural history of the area.
- Enjoy kayaking with Gainesville native Lars Andersen, whose 20 years of knowledge and expertise are unmatched.
General Notes
Select dates are designated for small groups and are limited to 24 participants or less. Almost all rooms have one queen bed. A low single supplement is available.
Featured Expert
Anne Casella
Anne Casella is a retired faculty from the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department at the University of Florida. She is an avid gardener and bird watcher and serves on the Conservation Committee of the Alachua Audubon Society. She is also a program reviewer and site visitor for the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. Whenever she is able, she travels widely to seek out new birds.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Lars Andersen
Lars Anderson is a history and wildlife author with more than 35 years of experience exploring Florida’s wildest places. He has published works about North Florida and Georgia including his most recent project: “The Paddlers Guide to the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail,” published by the Suwannee River Water Management District. Lars’s knowledge and understanding of the area’s cultural and natural history helps make each Road Scholar program a meaningful and educational exploration of the “real” Florida.
Robert Knight
Dr. Robert Knight is the founder and director of the Howard T. Odum Florida Springs Institute, a nonprofit program dedicated to supporting science and education for restoration and wise management of Florida’s artesian springs. Dr. Knight is an environmental scientist with more than 40 years of professional experience, including detailed ecological studies at more than 20 large springs. He is former adjunct professor at the University of Florida Dept. of Environmental Engineering and Sciences where he taught graduate level classes on Florida’s springs and wetlands.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Kayaking for several hours each day.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(4 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
12 meals | 5B | 3L | 4D |
5 expert-led lectures
7 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Intro to North Florida
Location:
Gainesville, Florida
Meals:
D
Stay:
Sweetwater Branch Inn Bed & Breakfast
Activity Note
Inn check-in from 3:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 3:00 p.m. After you have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table in the lobby to register with the program staff and to confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation: 4:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will learn from a series of local experts who will give lectures and lead field trips. Program-related travel and transfers will be via mini-bus shuttle unless noted otherwise. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a wine-and-cheese welcome reception before dinner, and spend some time getting to know our fellow lifelong learners.
Dinner:
At the inn, we’ll savor a dinner featuring Southern favorites.
Evening:
On the porch of the inn, we’ll settle in for an introductory discussion and viewing of a film on Florida’s many springs. The remainder of the evening will be at leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night's rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Florida Springs Institute, Paddle Down Ichetucknee River
Location:
Gainesville, Florida
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Sweetwater Branch Inn Bed & Breakfast
Activity Note
Getting in/out of kayaks; approximately 2 hours paddling time in the afternoon; one-way, downstream with gentle current. Getting on/off a shuttle bus; driving about 27 miles throughout the day, approximately 1/2 hour total riding time.
Breakfast:
At the inn.
Morning:
Boarding a shuttle bus, we will transfer to the Florida Springs Institute where we’ll meet an expert lecturer-biologist-ecologist for a lecture on the Florida springs and aquifer sustainability, followed by a question-and-answer session.
Lunch:
At the Ichetucknee State Park, we’ll enjoy a picnic spread.
Afternoon:
Arriving aboard our vehicle, we’ll meet our outfitter for an afternoon of kayaking on the river at Ichetucknee Springs. This is a one-way downstream paddle on a quiet spring of clear water, all within Ichetucknee State Park. Its width ranges from 10 feet in the narrowest parts of the headwaters to over 100 feet in the wild rice marshes, and the current is very gentle.
Dinner:
At the inn.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
3
Kayak Santa Fe River, Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park
Location:
Gainesville, Florida
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Sweetwater Branch Inn Bed & Breakfast
Activity Note
Getting on/off a shuttle bus; driving 50 miles, under 1.5 hours total riding time. Getting in/out of kayaks, paddling approximately 4.5 hours; one-way, downstream on Santa Fe River; relatively wide waterway (averaging nearly 100 feet across) with gentle current.
Breakfast:
At the inn.
Morning:
Arriving at the put-in point on the Santa Fe River, our paddle downstream will be a one-way trip on this broad, easy-flowing river. While this is primarily a blackwater river (the most common river type in Florida), we will pass one of the greatest concentrations of clear, artesian springs in Florida. Our route will carry us past over 15 named springs and many smaller, unnamed ones, as well as a couple of swallet holes where the water flows down into the ground—basically the reverse of springs. Few rivers compare with the Santa Fe for viewing and studying freshwater springs, swallets, and the karst terrain. Along the way, we’ll make stops and have opportunities to learn more about the springs, then keep our eyes peeled for wildlife.
Lunch:
At Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, we’ll have picnic lunches. Participants may stroll through the park and enjoy the stunning views of a typical Florida spring.
Afternoon:
We will continue down the Santa Fe River with our instructor. Arriving at the pull-out spot at the 41 Bridge, we’ll board the shuttle bus to return to the inn.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
We’ll then settle in on the porch for a lecture from a Florida historian on the commerce of the river, which will feature reports about industries such as logging, impact on Native American communities, and more.
Day
4
Paynes Prairie, Hike La Chua Trail, Observation Tower
Location:
Gainesville, Florida
Meals:
B
Stay:
Sweetwater Branch Inn Bed & Breakfast
Activity Note
Walking approximately 4 miles throughout the day; boardwalks, paved and packed earth trails, some avoidable steps. Getting on/off a shuttle bus; driving about 30 miles, less than 1 hour riding time.
Breakfast:
At the inn.
Morning:
Arriving to the park, we’ll set out on north rim of the La Chua Trail in Paynes Prairie State Park and take a morning hike with a local interpreter, who is also a senior park ranger. Paynes Prairie is the only park in Florida where visitors can experience bison and horses roaming wild, making it a unique place. Nearly 300 species of birds also frequent the park along with alligators, deer and many other animals. This park is city owned and plays an important role in the water purification of storm water. These manmade wetlands are enjoyed by an incredible number of migratory wading birds. A park ranger will accompany the group during our visit to the Sweetwater Wetlands Park.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like in the town of historic town of Micanopy. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
We’ll have a lecture in Micanopy. Continuing, we’ll hike the rims of La Chua Sink, still in Paynes Prairie, followed by a lecture from an environmental scientist who will explain why this feature plays an important role in Florida’s first state preserve. Our hike will finish at Paynes Prairie headquarters where you may wish to climb to the top of the three-story Observation Tower. It’s the perfect location to take in the views of the Big Lagoon State Park landscape.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Kayaking at Silver Springs State Park
Location:
Gainesville, Florida
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Sweetwater Branch Inn Bed & Breakfast
Activity Note
Getting in/out of kayaks; paddling about 2.5 hours one-way downstream; Silver River is relatively wide, from 70 to 100 feet across, with a gentle current. Getting on/off a shuttle bus; driving about 80 miles; about 2 hours total riding time roundtrip.
Breakfast:
At the inn.
Morning:
Traveling via shuttle bus, we’ll arrive at Silver River Springs State Park where we will kayak down the Silver River. There are the dozens of springs along the first mile of the river including Mammoth Spring, one of the largest in the world. The clear water flowing from these springs merge to form one of Florida's most scenic rivers. The entire 5.5-mile river and the land surrounding it on both sides is within Silver River State Park, which features a semi-tropical forest of bald cypress, tupelo, red maples, green ash, holly, dogwood, elm, and palm trees.
Lunch:
At Silver Springs State Park, we’ll have our picnic lunches.
Afternoon:
We’ll visit the Silver Springs State Park’s head, where we will board a glass bottom boat for a ride on the water. Better able to see the goings on beneath the surface, we will see the river in a whole new way.
Dinner:
At the Inn, we’ll be joined by an expert and board member from the Florida Springs Institute who will present a lecture as we enjoy a meal. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. You may wish to explore the Gainesville Farmers Market nearby. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
6
Wrap-up Presentation, Program Concludes
Location:
Gainesville, Florida
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Inn check-out by 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the inn.
Morning:
After breakfast, we’ll conclude by taking a group picture and exchanging contact information. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
12 Meals
5 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
4 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Dec 01, 2024 - Dec 06, 2024
- Jan 12, 2025 - Jan 17, 2025
- Jan 19, 2025 - Jan 24, 2025
- Feb 09, 2025 - Feb 14, 2025
- Feb 16, 2025 - Feb 21, 2025
- Feb 23, 2025 - Feb 28, 2025
- Mar 02, 2025 - Mar 07, 2025
- Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 14, 2025
- Mar 16, 2025 - Mar 21, 2025
- Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
- Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
- Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 12, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 46 Reviews
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We took the "Kayaking North Florida’s Sacred Springs & Rivers" and had a marvelous time.
Knowledgeable and competent guides took us on trips on different types of rivers including many springs, parks and the local research institute.
We stayed at an amazing bed and breakfast, , met and became friends with interesting people, ate great food and learned so much about the environment including the importance of the Florida aquafer that is being systematically damaged by over-development and business interests.
This trip is well worth taking.
— Review left October 30, 2024
The Sacred Spring & Rivers trip was all that it was advertised and word of mouth reviews.
The charming town of Gainesville Florida along with the Sweetwater Branch Inn provided the foundation for a GREAT trip! Our guide Lars Andersen did a fantastic job of sharing his wealth knowledge about Florida's springs, habitat and ecological challenges that Florida faces. I have to say that the use of wireless headsets that the Road Scholar provides ensures that everyone can hear what all the guides were saying. Our Road Scholar hostess Gail made certain that our needs were attended to. Job well done by all! I highly recommend this tour for everyone.
— Review left June 8, 2024
This is a great value! The Sweetwater Branch was a gorgeous inn and the meals were amazing. The paddling equipment was easy to use and the streams were stunningly beautiful. Luckily, our 14 stalwart paddlers bonded into a congenial, fun-loving group without exception. Road Scholar at its finest!
— Review left March 25, 2024
Awesome trip. I’ve attended twice and it even managed to improve the second time. Great accommodations, food, and leaders. Lars Anderson is a local gem. What he doesn’t know about local history and nature you probably don’t need to know. Sweetwater Inn is a delight. Paddling and floating the rivers is relaxing and educational. We were fortunate to have a very congenial group.
Jazz band at farewell dinner was the icing on the cake.
— Review left March 23, 2024
Kayaking North Florida’s Sacred Springs & Rivers:
Gayle was amazing. Lars was great, helpful and very knowledgeable. The springs and rivers we kayaked were beautiful. The lodging was lovely. Great food. Wine, cheese and sausage was a nice time to visit with other Road Scholars. I'm so glad to have experienced this trip!
— Review left March 21, 2024
This is a wonderful program for anyone who enjoys the outdoors and would like to experience a beautiful part of Florida that many beach-going tourists do not get to experience! If you like to kayak, or would like to improve your kayaking skills in a relaxing setting, this is an excellent adventure. Learning about Florida's freshwater systems and the flora and fauna is an additional enhancement. The instructors on this program are excellent, the accommodations outstanding, and the meals superb!
— Review left March 16, 2024
It was a beautiful trip, the food was good, the inn charming, Gayle the group leader really nice and efficient.
— Review left March 16, 2024
Kayaking the Springs and Rivers of North Florida
— Review left March 11, 2024
A wonderful educational experience on the Florida Springs and in the parks.
— Review left March 4, 2024
We were educated, challenged on the river, and spoiled at the Sweetwater Branch Inn. Just the right combination of experiences.
— Review left February 17, 2024
Cornelia Holbrook, the owner of the Sweetwater Branch Inn and Bed and Breakfast developed this program and has had an association with Road Scholar and Elderhostel since she was a tike (Holbrook travel). That she really cares about this program shows. The part of the Inn that we stay in are unique rooms in two restored Victorian houses. The grounds are lovely. Downtown Gainesville is an easy walk with an adjacent park. The kayaking is easy on aquifer fed springs so we see flora and fauna including birds, alligators, fish, manatees, even monkeys at Silver Springs. The outfitter is first rate. My brother and have done this program twice.
— Review left January 27, 2024
As this was the second time in two years that I chose this program, it can be assumed that I REALLY liked it.
The accommodations are exquisite, as is the food prepared by the inn.
The kayaking is very enjoyable, easy if you want it to be, more strenuous if you do some speed trials.
The rivers are different in vegetation, and animals.
The one day off the river provides an overview of a complex prairie/wetland with a chance to see an extraordinary array of birds, alligators and turtles. We learned that a grouping of alligators is called a "congregation".
The kayak leader, Lars, is almost infinitely knowledgeable about all aspects of the rivers and history; but did not overwhelm with chatter while on the river (and you can just turn off the listening device).
All in all, an experience that I thought was worth repeating.
— Review left January 26, 2024
Wonderful paddling trip that was easier than others I've done with RS. It included great educational presentations about these waters. Very scenic above and below the waters! Well run trip. While Jan weather was unusually cold one paddle day, it was still very doable!
— Review left January 20, 2024
Kayaking North Florida’s Sacred Springs and Rivers was the perfect way to learn more and experience the beauty of this natural area of Florida. Our days were filled with kayaking, hiking, and learning about this important ecosystem. The accommodations were very nice, oh so comfortable and welcoming. The food was very good. And we were blessed with terrific weather. This is my fifth Road Scholar trip and I would highly recommend it!
— Review left December 11, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this program. Kayaking the beautiful springs and rivers was almost surreal. It was great to have Lars' interpretation throughout the paddling. I learned so much about the natural world and the abundant wildlife we saw. The Inn was super comfortable and inviting and the food was amazing. Ann did a great job of keeping us safe and on schedule.
— Review left December 11, 2023
Kayaking the Springs of North Florida was so much fun! I loved my room in the beautiful Sweetwater Inn and am ready to go back. The three springs each offered a look at unique settings, but my favorite was the Ichetucknee River as the water was crystal clear blue and there weren’t many people around. We saw manatee in two different springs, a few gators, a multitude of turtles sunning on logs and many different birds while paddling. There were countless gators at Payne’s Prairie while hiking on the walking bridges looking down. Lars Anderson was a superb guide as his knowledge of the environment is extensive and his stories are great.
— Review left December 11, 2023
This is a very special small group event. There were people from far away, even another country, who attended. There were repeat guests. I plan to repeat this excursion. The guided tours on the gorgeous Florida Springs waters was amazing.
— Review left November 7, 2023
We first did this exact same trip in 2021 and were excited to do it again in 2023, two years later. We may very well do it again in 2025! Here’s proof you can indeed kayak the same river twice, and there is nothing better than encountering the pristine Ichetucknee, Santa Fe and Silver Rivers, and those gorgeous springs. I hate to say it—better see them while you can—because there are so many stresses on the springs from commercial bottlers, agricultural irrigation, homeowner’s lawn fertilizers, cattle ranches, artesian wells, and more. But when you are on the river and in the middle of those blue springs, hearing the birdlife all around, viewing the turtles all lined up on a log, and the gators lazing about in the sun, well, you can feel your blood pressure lowering and your breath deepening. It’s a trip filled with Zen moments of gratitude and appreciation and celebration of the world around us and that in our 70s, we are still able to hike and kayak and explore. Once again, Cornelia’s hospitality and meals at Gainesville’s Sweetwater Branch Inn B&B are unsurpassed. Once again, the tour guides (this time Mary, Jackie, and Lars) did all the work, and the participants had all the pleasures of being in the middle of this astounding environment. Once again, the invited speakers were masters of geology, hydrology, cultural history and more. An added dollop this time was our being able to hear from the Micanopy logging master who works to retrieve abandoned cypress and pine logs at the bottom of the river and transform them into architectural works of art. And another dollop was the thrill of our closing night dinner back at Sweetwater Branch Inn with the Front Porch jazz band (including our very own Mary and Jackie!) offering up American songbook standards. Truly, this is the best of the Road Scholar approach. --Ben and Joyce Wiley/Largo FL
— Review left March 11, 2023
I'm not sure what I enjoyed more...the beautiful kayak days or the education about our springs. An excellent experience no matter why you choose it.
— Review left February 10, 2023
A unique opportunity to experience the nature of inland Northern Florida, so unlike costal Florida. Beautiful natural springs & rivers with abundant wildlife sightings.
— Review left January 30, 2023
Wonderful program. Mary, Jackie and Lars are well organized, extremely informed and caring leaders. Sweetwater Branch Inn is lovely with very comfortable accommodations. Group size of 14 allowed everyone to get to know each other well. If you enjoy kayaking and spending the day outdoors, you will love this program.
— Review left November 21, 2022
Kayaking North Florida Scared Springs and Rivers is a great program! Leisurely pace, great environmental knowledge shared, well organized program!
— Review left October 29, 2022
This is a great program. We were first time Road Scholar travelers and it far exceeded our expectations. Cornelia and staff at Sweetwater Branch Inn provided an outstanding experience. The beautifully restored homes and food made this tour a lifetime memory. Thanks to all. Jim
— Review left October 29, 2022
Seeing the springs, learning how important they are to Florida as well to our ecosystem is amazing. The program, leaders, accommodations, small group size, & meals are first class.
— Review left October 28, 2022
This was my first trip (Kayaking North Florida) with RS and I am filled with awe. I got to learn about the ecology of the area that I kayaked and hiked. I will forever feel connected with this amazing place.
— Review left March 27, 2022
Nice accommodations, good meals. An interesting combination of rivers and springs. Each had something different to offer. A good opportunity to learn about the Floridan Aquifer and its condition and outlook for the future.
— Review left March 25, 2022
Great fun, and educational too. Lars is an excellent outfitter, and accommodates all levels of kayaking experience. And the B&B (Sweetwater Branch Inn) is welcoming and goes out of its way to ensure a great time.
— Review left March 9, 2022
Absolutely fantastic trip. I would sign up for anything that Lars Anderson did. His paddling trips were so informative and excellent for any level of kayaker. The Sweetwater Branch Inn could not have been more perfect. Cornelia had everything extremely well organized and I felt very comfortable. I so appreciated all she did for individually wrapped foods when possible and the happy hours were an extra treat. Music in the main area was very relaxing and enjoyable. There were plenty of options for sitting indoors or outside. Each of the rooms were outstanding with their own personality. The food she provided was outstanding and she had many options for vegetarians and those who preferred gluten free options. Everyone who worked there was very helpful and friendly. It was so nice of Anne to step in on the second day to help cover the rest of the trip when Debbie had to step back due to illness. The visit to Paynes Prairie was very informative and the guide was also outstanding. The only 2 disappointments was the omission of the lecture on industry and Native American history and the visit for lunch to Micanopy. There was only one restaurant open with very long lines and the shops were primarily antiques. Overall I would still say this was an excellent trip andI look forward to more with Roads Scholar in the future.
— Review left March 3, 2022
A great way to quietly enjoy the streams & wildlife. Good guide, lodging, food, & educational experience.
— Review left February 22, 2022
Our group of intrepid paddlers enjoyed three amazing kayaking adventures. Our guide, Lars Andersen turned the rivers into an outdoor classroom with entertaining and understandable commentary. We experienced beautiful landscapes and were able to see an incredible variety of wildlife. Our visit to Paynes Prairie and Sweetwater Wetlands Park provided an opportunity to learn about the area’s unique ecological features as well as how Gainseville is restoring water quality. Another star of the program was the Sweetwater Branch Inn, it is a beautiful and welcoming place and made the program even more enjoyable. .
— Review left February 18, 2022
Kayaking the springs and rivers was fantastic! We saw animals, birds and beautiful scenery galore! Our hotel was wonderful, meals were delish and the company of the other RoadScholars and guides was warm and friendly. Thanks RS for a great experience!
— Review left February 15, 2022
Exploring the natural springs and rivers of north Florida by kayak is a unique experience,
— Review left February 7, 2022
There were three days of easy kayaking almost entirely downstream, on rivers that were different enough from each other to make each unique. There was one day of light walking accompanied by narrative from guides and rangers in two very interesting environments. The only somewhat strenuous activity was getting up from the kayak seat to a standing position.
The accommodation was one of the best I've experienced in 17 RS trips. Really a classy resort with nice amenities including heated pool and whirlpool and evening wine and cheese socials.
BUT, as this is Florida after all, adherence to indoor mask wearing was spotty. This included staff even when they were speaking directly to you within a few feet. As I said, hit or miss.
— Review left January 28, 2022
In addition to the wonderful paddling and bird sightings, we learned a great deal about the aquifer that feeds the rivers of northern Florida.
— Review left January 23, 2022
Top notch all the way. Facilitated by professionals who are tops in their field, personable, and eager to share their knowledge and passion.
— Review left January 22, 2022
I highly recommend this program whether new to kayaking or have been doing it for years. The artisan springs are just beautiful with clear water where you can see manatees, turtles, fish and even a couple of alligators. As you float gently down the rivers, there is plenty of water birds to see on the banks, flying overhead and hunting in the water. The tree canopy with Spanish moss, cypress knees and palmettos made for a beautiful backdrop to the wildlife.
Lars, our kayaking guide, was very professional, friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the rivers, springs, plants and wildlife. His guidance added to the enjoyment of the river trips.
The Sweetwater Branch Inn is a beautiful, historic property located just a few blocks from downtown. The grounds are lovely, the room was very comfortable and beautifully decorated. Every meal we had was delicious and accommodated different dietary restrictions. Cornelia, the owner and our hostess, was always available and made sure we didn’t want for anything.
Thank you to Doug and Glenn for driving us safely to our adventures and delivering our picnic lunches.
— Review left December 19, 2021
It was a sublime week of glorious weather and sparkling springs on the Ichetucknee, Santa Fe and Silver Rivers. Our naturalist guide Lars kept a running commentary on wildlife and birdlife while on the water as we used the headphones. Close encounters with manatees only added to the magic of the place. At other times, you were free to disconnect, float on your own and just listen to the water and the wind. The kayaking crew did all the heavy lifting, arranging and launching. All you had to do was paddle and enjoy the meandering, spring-fed rivers. Presentations and films from experts at the Springs Institute put all this "sacred springs" into context as it was clear how threatened these springs are from agricultural irrigation, commercial bottling, and homeowner pollution. Our accommodations at Gainesville's Sweetwater Branch Inn B&B were superb. Cornelia and her crew made sure we were well-fed and well-feted, both at home and with picnic lunches. The day's outing to Payne's Prairie State Park was surprising and revelatory--what an amazing natural resource right there in the Gainesville area when I usually associate prairies with the midwest. This is the best of the Road Scholar approach to onsite experience and learning--fun, spirited, educational, with a compatible and companionable group of like-minded travelers. And most of all, those beautiful, powerful, fragile, vulnerable springs where we were privileged to paddle. We've done a number of RS kayaking outings (Columbia River in Pacific NW, Low Country South Carolina, Maryland's Eastern Shore/Chesapeake, Acadia NP in Maine, and later this year, Kayaking in the Everglades). This experience on the springs and rivers of Northern Florida count among the absolute best.
— Review left December 16, 2021
This was a great kayaking trip. The rivers were clear and beautiful and the trip leader, Lars Anderson was terrific. The paddling was easy and all downstream. We saw many Manatees, turtles, birds, fish, etc. It was so helpful to have the listening devices on the river, as we could all hear what was going on. The food and accommodations were great. If they do a second version of this trip, I think most everyone on the trip would sign up to go again.
— Review left December 14, 2021
Our first trip, this was inspiring, joyful, and free from our usual stresses. We were welcomed warmly at the Inn, first by our “Head Shepherd” Glen, then by Cornelia, our friendly and gracious Innkeeper. The accommodations were exceptional, and the food was outstanding.
We were new to kayaking and chose the much maligned tandem kayak which worked well for us. We were encouraged by our fellow participants and, if needed, our guides were there to help us. By the end of our stay, we had made many dear friends with whom we shared much joy.
The Florida springs are vital to the state. We learned first hand from passionate instructors the importance of maintaining the springs for the good health and well being for all who rely on these waters.
This was a fascinating adventure which has inspired us to return to both kayaking and to the springs.
— Review left December 12, 2021
An excellent program. Would highly recommend.
— Review left December 11, 2021
Fantastic trip -- a bit larger group than expected but was really not a problem at all. Easy kayaking on smooth, wonderfully clear water. Alligators were no problem and we did see a few snakes in and around the water but they were no problem either. It was fantastic when the big old manatee came up right next to my kayak! Resort/Inn was truly a gem -- gorgeously furnished with love and a great sense of comfort and concern for the guests. I will keep a lookout for more such programs!
— Review left December 3, 2021
Super program. I learned a lot about Florida springs and visited places that I plan to revisit.
— Review left October 30, 2021
This program met my expectations to see a lot of water birds and beautiful scenery while enjoying my hobby of kayaking. The accommodations for this program were very fine and the food was divine. Our group leader, Jonathan Varol and outfitter Lars Anderson were great!
— Review left February 28, 2020
We really enjoyed the 3 diverse kayaking experiences with an experienced guide. The day of hikes in different locations was a very nice additional activity. The listening devices were a great asset especially for those who like to take pictures or linger but don't want to miss the commentary.
— Review left February 17, 2020
Fun, and educational Kayaking adventure with excellent leaders on three clear water/dark water steams; 99 % of the 15 miles are with the currant.
— Review left February 9, 2020
Want to stay in a stunning historic Bed and Breakfast and enjoy kayaking Florida springs? Then you might want to sign up for this programs. The Sweetwater Inn was superb and the food outstanding (as well as plentiful). Even though I am a Floridian, I learned many things about Florida's springs and water supply. Although the weather was cool, we had wonderful trips down several rivers. The use of listening devices meant we could easily hear our tour guides. Dr. Bob Knight of the Florida Springs Institute and river guide Lars Anderson was extremely knowledgeable and interesting to listen to. This tour is a bit 'spirited' with very little free time, but I am sure it will be tweaked over time. My husband and I participated in the very first program. Everyone in our group made several constructive suggestions and Cornelia, the Inn Keeper, was very responsive to ideas for improvements and suggestions.
— Review left January 24, 2020